Nabil Fekir starts new Gulf chapter with promoted Abha

Nabil Fekir has completed a move to Abha, joining the recently promoted Saudi Arabian top-flight club as a free agent.

The 33-year-old attacking midfielder, who is of Algerian origin, had been without a club since ending his spell with Al Jazira in the United Arab Emirates. He has now opted to continue his career in the Gulf after several days of negotiations between the player and Abha.

The move was finalised and officially announced on Wednesday, confirming the next stage of Fekir’s career after his departure from Al Jazira. With no contract in place before the agreement, the former France international was available without a transfer fee.

Abha are expecting Fekir’s experience at the highest level and his technical ability to play an important part in their return to Saudi Arabia’s elite. The club see him as one of the senior figures in their project and will look to him to provide creativity and the quality to influence matches.

His arrival is intended to strengthen Abha’s ambitions for the new season. The club have returned to the first division of Saudi football and believe Fekir can help them meet the demands of competing at that level.

Fekir’s stock remains significant despite becoming a free agent. Transfermarkt currently values him at €5m, underlining the perceived worth of a player whose career has included top-level international and club football.

The agreement brings an end to the uncertainty surrounding his immediate future. Following his spell in the United Arab Emirates, Fekir will now continue his career in Saudi Arabia, where Abha are building their squad for their return to the top flight.

The club’s decision to recruit a player with Fekir’s experience reflects the importance it places on strengthening the team for the season ahead. His ability to create opportunities and make a decisive difference in attacking areas is expected to be central to Abha’s plans.

For Fekir, the move represents a continuation of his career in the Gulf and a fresh opportunity to take on a leading role. He joins Abha without a transfer fee after the end of his time with Al Jazira, while the Saudi club gain an experienced attacking midfielder for their latest challenge in the country’s top division.